Friday, November 9, 2012

Fall Tune Up Checklist

Fall is here and HomeTeam Inspection Service has a list of tips and areas that you can homeowners can check to ensure that their home is well prepared and more energy efficient as the winter months approach.

1.Examine Your Home’s Foundation

Examine crawlspace for standing water, mold, or fungus

Install vapor barrier for crawlspace

Check for cracks in basement walls

Identify basement leaks

Check for proper insulation in basement and crawlspace

2.Inspect the Framing and Exterior

Reseal brickwork every five to eight years

Caulk around windows, doors, utility line entrances, and vents

Look for signs of insect activity, especially in crawlspace framing and around floor-framing perimeter

Secure any loose sections of vinyl or aluminum siding and replace damaged sections when appropriate

If necessary, retrofit insulation into sidewalls and attic floors

3. Check for Problems on Your Roof

Clean gutters and downspouts and make sure they are securely attached

Check for missing or cracked shingles

Look for signs of a leaking roof

Observe chimney and flu stack for visible damage

Be sure all bath, kitchen, and dryer vents go entirely outside of your home, not just into the attic.

4.Look Over Any Electrical Wiring

Check outdoor recepts to make sure they are water tight

Change or install bulbs in any outdoor light sockets

Upgrade faulty wiring

Set up GFCI recepts by sinks, lavatories, garage and outdoor receptacles

Contact an electrician if you constantly blow fuses or trip circuit breakers

5.Investigate the Plumbing in Your Home

Put away garden hose and shut off hose bibs

Insulate water supply lines and water heater

Fix slow drip leaks and leaky valves

Install temperature and pressure valves

Tighten any loose fixture attachments

6.Take Time to Observe the HVAC

Cover your air conditioner

Tightly seal all ductwork seams with foil tape

Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors or check for battery life

Clean flues from the furnace, water heater, and fireplace

Have a heating contractor inspect and ready your heating system

The above suggestions may require professional assistance to ensure proper installation. To maintain a safe home for you and your family, order a whole home inspection by The HomeTeam Inspection Service, the professional leader in residential home inspections. Our team of expert home inspectors will provide you with a thorough evaluation, covering over 400 points inside and outside of your home. For peace of mind, trust the HomeTeam.